NEW family badminton classes have been launched in Oxford in an effort to get families to get fit together.

Fusion Lifestyle, which provides services for Oxford City Council, has worked with Badminton England to launch new classes.

'No Strings' is a weekly 'turn up and play' session for adults and their families. They are available at Leys Pools and Ferry Leisure Centres.

The sessions will be held alongside family swimming and junior gym sessions.

Nick Rimmer, of Badminton England, said: “Badminton’s such a great way to get the whole family involved and moving more. You can’t help but feel good after a game as it really works the whole body as well as creating lots of fun and memorable moments to share”

And Chris Jones, Head of Sports and Community, Fusion said: “Childhood inactivity is a real problem and we recognise that families want to do more together. We’re responding to this by developing more activities that people of all ages can get together and play. These new badminton sessions are the first of many family activities to come”

While Councillor Linda Smith, deputy leader of Oxford City Council, said: "These family badminton sessions are another great reason for families to visit our leisure facilities when they want to spend some quality together.

"Our leisure facilities in Oxford are a great family friendly destination with a wide variety of activities on offer for all ages."

Free trials are being held until the end of March.